| Abstract: | Born in Shanghai to a poor Communist family, Yao Ming never intended to become the most famous living Chinese person on earth. But with his deft shooting touch and unassuming demeanor, the Houston Rockets＇ 7＇6＂ center has become an NBA All-Star and multimillionaire celebrity endorser- and changed the face of American sports.Yet many mysteries surround him. How did a nation known for people of short stature produce such a towering giant？ And how did Yao emerge from the shadowy sports system of his rapidly changing homeland to take a place under the spotlights on professional sports＇ brightest stage？ |
